The weather was perfect for Cole and Phoebe's wedding day, with sunny skies and a light breeze. It took two hours to get to the venue. Mila, Nathan, the Morrisons, and the Hoffises were all invited.The generosity of the Morrisons and Hoffises was staggering, their gifts alone could have easily bought Cole and Phoebe another house.Mila presented Phoebe with a million-dollar jewelry set, while Nathan surprised Cole with a luxury car of the same value.The Gilberts were thrilled and overwhelmed by the grandeur of the event. They never imagined that their humble rural wedding would attract such esteemed guests, including the wealthiest family in Norvania, the Norvanian general, and several other dignitaries and military comrades.Cole's parents had underestimated Cole's role, believing he was just a regular assistant to Nathan. The prestigious guest list filled them with pride, giving them something to boast about for the rest of their lives.Norvanian weddings were steeped in tradi
Mila's sympathy for Daniel deepened as she took a seat. "Daniel, if you don't grab this opportunity now, who knows if another one will come along."Daniel shook his head. "There wasn't much of an opportunity to begin with."Sighing, Mila muttered, "I wonder if that guy with Sienna is a blind date or her boyfriend. I'm not sure what to say to her either.""Did Phoebe only invite Sienna?" Daniel asked."Yeah.""Isn't that telling?""Telling of what?"Daniel tried to hide his disappointment behind a fake smile. "She brought her boyfriend along to join in the excitement. Then, she would reveal that she's getting married soon, right before you and Phoebe. Naturally, that would dash any hope I had."Mila felt even more sympathetic. "Daniel, why are you so negative? You used to be different. What happened to your confidence and open-mindedness?"Daniel reached for his phone and pressed the call button for the driver. "Wanda, please apologize to Phoebe and Cole on my behalf. I'm not f
Sienna settled into her car seat, a peculiar uneasiness washing over her. It wasn't overpowering, but rather a persistent discomfort, akin to a hand clutching her heart, causing her breath to catch.She sighed and mustered a smile before she asked, "Felix, if you were rich, powerful, and held a government position, would you consider marrying someone like me?"Felix burst into laughter. "Are you kidding? If I had such a status, I'd definitely choose a partner from a similar background. You're struggling financially, without any influence, not even a stable job."Let's face reality, Sienna. We should look for partners who align with our social status."Sienna forced a bitter smile, her gaze falling as she sighed. Deep down, she knew Felix was speaking the truth. She shouldn't indulge in fantasies that weren't grounded in reality.Suddenly, Felix studied Sienna before speaking again, "Sienna, you're stunning and have an amazing physique. You'd be the ideal mistress for a wealthy or
Cole froze, his phone in his grip, his face registering pure shock. Mila too, had her expression hardened, a surge of anxiety knotting her insides. Without exchanging a word, the three of them left the room, rushing to the lounge to find Cameron. "Cameron, has Fenna taken Nate?" Mila's voice quivered with urgency. Cameron's eyes widened in shock. Without hesitation, he dialed Fenna's number. Seconds later, he lowered the phone with a pale expression and stuttered, "She's turned it off." In that instant, Cameron felt a dread deeper than anyone else. If Fenna had truly done something unethical, not only would she face legal consequences, but her life could also be at risk. No amount of influence could shield her from that. Taking a seat to steady herself, Mila asked after a moment of reflection, "Did you drive here?" Cameron nodded. "Yes. I drank, but Fenna didn't. I was counting on her to drive me home." "Where's your car?" Without a second thought, Cameron dashed o
As Mila and the group approached the motel, the receptionist whispered, "Looks like we've got more police coming." A police officer inquired, "What do you mean?" Pointing toward the elevator, the receptionist explained, "Someone called the police, and the manager just took a few police upstairs." Not waiting for more, the police pressed, "Did a woman named Fenna check in tonight with an intoxicated man?" Before the receptionist could respond, Mila and Cameron moved past the police, heading straight for the elevator to check the floor. It halted at the third floor. Mila pressed the button again, and soon, Cole and Phoebe joined them. "It's the third floor." The police from the front desk caught up, and together, they ascended to the third floor. Outside room 302, the earlier police officers were still knocking on the door. Cole pushed through impatiently and stated, "Stop knocking. Break it down, I'll cover the cost." As soon as he finished his words, he kicked the d
Over and over, Fenna played out the same narrative, and Mila had reached her limit. Cameron led Fenna away with the police. Cole carried Nathan, while Mila and Phoebe guided him out of the motel. The night seemed destined for endless torment. Unable to take Nathan, who was deeply ensnared in a drug-induced slumber, home with her, Mila chose to stay at the hotel. Cole returned home with Phoebe. In the quiet stillness of the early morning, Mila tenderly wiped Nathan's feverish body, trying to cool his soaring temperature. Despite his drug-induced sleep, he appeared restless, as if the drug still held him in its grip. Mila pondered if easing some of his tension might offer him some relief. She undressed them both and leaned in to kiss Nathan softly, positioning herself above him. Just as she prepared to close the distance between them, Nathan's eyes snapped open. Taken aback, Mila pulled back, her voice trembling. "Nate, are you awake?" Frowning, Nathan stared at he
Mila set her phone aside, pulling the covers up to sleep. The next morning greeted her with a refreshed feeling. After freshening up, she checked the time and felt it was the right moment to check on Nathan. As she opened the door, she was taken aback to find Nathan standing there, still and silent, blocking her path. Their eyes met, and she found herself taken aback yet again. A soft smile graced Nathan's lips, his eyes clear but tinged with a touch of resignation. "Are you fully awake now?" Mila teased lightly. "Is it really you?" "Yes, did you think I was some sort of imagination?" "With how I felt yesterday, it wouldn't have been surprising," Nathan admitted. "Still not feeling well?" Mila inquired. "Yeah," he replied. With that, Nathan gently ushered her into the room, closing the door behind them. He lifted her off the ground, his lips finding hers as he carried her to the bed. Mila had assumed that by morning, the effects of the drug would have faded. To he
Fenna's voice trembled as she said, "I'm not sick." Nathan's tone hardened. "Then we're pressing charges." Cameron's frustration boiled over. "Fenna, how much longer will you keep this up? Nate is giving you a chance. Why are you still clinging to this? Refuse treatment, you'll end up in jail." Biting her lip and wiping away her tears, Fenna's eyes locked onto Nathan's with determination. "I have one question, and I need the truth." Nathan nodded. "Go ahead." After a brief pause, Fenna said, "Swear on your wife and son that you'll only speak the truth." Nathan complied, swearing on Mila and Jasper to tell the truth. Content, Fenna questioned, "If not for Chubs, would you have chosen to be with me?" Without missing a beat, Nathan responded, "Even without her, I wouldn't have any feelings for you. To be clear, even if you were the last woman on earth, I'd choose Cameron over you." Cameron recoiled, stepping back in shock and swallowing hard. Overwhelmed, Fenna's emo
Jasper became concerned as Imogen placed her hand over her heart. He asked, "Are you experiencing any chest pains? Have you consulted a doctor? I can take you for a check-up."Imogen reassured him, gently holding his arm. "Jasper, I'm fine. I'm just trying to figure out how to balance my future family and career."Jasper smiled knowingly, gently patting her head before pulling her into an embrace. He recognized her uniqueness—her drive to pursue her career and showcase her skills and talents. The thought of being a stay-at-home mother or merely a trophy wife held no appeal for her whatsoever.Holding her close, Jasper murmured, "Imogen, have you forgotten about your husband's financial prowess?"Imogen couldn't suppress a chuckle.Jasper reassured her of his commitment, "As long as you're on board, I can arrange a driver to drive you to work, an assistant to handle all your tasks, and you won't have to worry about anything. When you return home, there will be maids and me to ens
After returning from her journey across the globe, Imogen headed straight to the hospital. During her travels, she started noticing subtle changes in her body—nausea, fatigue, and a stronger need for rest. Her hunch was confirmed when tests revealed she was pregnant.She felt a blend of anticipation and apprehension. The idea of being pregnant raised thoughts of focusing on family life and raising children. Yet, she valued her career and was steadily demonstrating her skills. She wasn't ready to give it up just yet.When Imogen arrived home and stepped through the front door, she found Gregory and Carol were there. They had just returned from their trip as well, bringing back gifts. "Hi, Mom, Dad," Imogen greeted them.Still excited about their travels, Gregory and Carol eagerly recounted their adventures to Jasper.When Jasper heard Imogen's voice, he quickly stood and walked over to her, taking her hand. "Imogen, I woke up early and didn't see you around. Where did you go?"
Jasper thought the idea was brilliant and agreed, "Let's plan our route and leave next week."Imogen gently pushed him back, her hands on his chest. "Sure, but let me get up first. We'll map out our journey, set a schedule, and go on a trip for our wedding."Jasper took her wrists and lifted them above the pillow. "Let's discuss this tomorrow. I have some pressing matters to attend to at the moment."Imogen was about to respond when Jasper leaned in and kissed her deeply. Their lips intertwined with passion.…A week later, Imogen received another call from Yulia's lawyer, who conveyed Yulia's apologies and expressed her desire for Imogen's forgiveness. Yulia also requested Imogen to intervene with Nathan on her behalf.Imogen decided to ignore the request. She believed in the fairness of the law. It reminded her of Zoey, who had fraudulently claimed her degree and ended up in prison at Jasper's behest.As for Yulia, she had orchestrated attacks on Gregory, caused Carol to lose
Imogen's heart raced as she slowly hugged Jasper, her voice bashful yet resolute. "Jasper, you'll always have a place in my heart."Jasper tensed slightly, his senses on high alert. He met her eyes. A glint of anticipation sparked in his gaze as he eagerly murmured, "Say it one more time. Say it—""I love you, Jasper," Imogen said gently.Jasper's eyes immediately filled with tears as he held Imogen tightly, his body shaking. Overwhelmed by emotion, he could only whisper her name into her ear. "Imogen… Imogen…""Do you love me?" Imogen asked, her voice tinged with shyness.Jasper frowned. "I do love you. Haven't you always known?""I still want to hear it," Imogen said."I love you. I love you with all my heart," Jasper declared, gazing at her with intense passion and unwavering resolve.Feeling a bit stiff from his tight hug, Imogen gently pushed him away. "I love you, too, but I must get up and go to work.""Not today," Jasper responded, scooping and carrying her back to bed
"If it's a gift, why not accept it?" Mila whispered.Gregory quickly took the check, looking unsure of his next move.Once his money was accepted, Oakley assumed the issue was settled. He took Yulia's hand and began to leave the ward, saying, "Well, I'll leave with Yulia for now."Still feeling resentful, Yulia glanced back and shot Imogen a glare as they departed.The ward fell silent. Feeling uneasy, Gregory and Carol exchanged anxious glances."Nate, we can't go easy on them," Mila whispered.Nathan smiled knowingly. He took Mila's hand, gently caressed it, and said quietly, "Don't worry. I'll ensure our in-laws get the justice they deserve."Mila nodded, feeling reassured. Gregory and Carol, who were listening nearby, felt deeply moved and grateful.Since Gregory was injured and confined to bed, the meeting between Jasper's and Imogen's parents ended earlier than expected. After saying goodbye to their parents, Jasper and Imogen headed home. On their way home, Jasper felt
Yulia was renowned for her boldness and strong-willed nature. Aware of Oakley's wealth, influence, and dual reputation in legal and illicit circles, she feared no one and held a contemptuous attitude toward others, including senior military figures."You need to apologize to Ms. Imogen immediately," Oakley whispered urgently.Pointing at Imogen, Yulia muttered irritably, "Her? Oh, please! If anyone owes an apology, it's her to me."Oakley wiped his forehead nervously, trembling with anxiety. Everyone's expressions around them darkened visibly. Jasper suppressed his anger; his hands clenched into fists.Before he could speak, Yulia grumbled, "Jay, you blocked me before understanding everything, and then you terminated our contract. That's just too much."Mila couldn't shake her worry for Jasper. If he couldn't manage his relationship with Yulia appropriately, it could severely impact his marriage. Concerned that he might not handle it well, Mila intervened. "Ms. Gibson, please resp
Carol no longer believed the portrayal of wealthy women on television.Jasper took Imogen's hand, and they sat down on the couch together, feeling anxious. It was their parents' first meeting, and the hospital setting added to the tension. If things went wrong and their relationship soured, their future would look bleak.Imogen was particularly anxious. Her palms were growing clammy. Jasper pulled out a tissue and gently wiped her palms before reassuringly saying, "There's no need to be nervous. My parents are easygoing."Offering an awkward smile, Imogen teased him, whispering, "You seem more nervous than I am, don't you think?"Jasper chuckled but offered no reply. Dealing with Gregory and Carol was sure to be a bit daunting.Typically reserved around strangers, Nathan found it difficult to start a conversation at that moment. Meanwhile, Gregory and Carol felt apprehensive and cautious, worried that any misstep could upset the Morrisons and cause problems for Imogen.Sensing th
Mila approached them with a bouquet, smiling. "Yes, we're in the right place. We've come to visit you, our in-laws."The term "in-laws" caught Gregory off guard as he lay in the bed. Despite his injuries, he quickly propped himself up, struggling to sit upright. Carol, equally surprised, cautiously accepted the gift from Nathan's outstretched hands.Jasper and Imogen took the next elevator, so they hadn't reached the ward yet.Nathan quickly set his things down and hurried over, gently placing a reassuring hand on Gregory's shoulder. "You're injured. Don't get up. Just lie down and rest.""General Morrison, I…" Gregory's voice faltered in distress.Carol's hands trembled uncontrollably as she glanced nervously at Mila, worried that Mila and Nathan had overheard her argument with Gregory.Nathan spoke in a gentle tone, "Please, don't call me General Morrison. It sounds too formal. You both are older than me. Just call me Nathan, and I'll call you two by name in return."Mila came
In the hospital ward, Gregory had been asleep for over an hour when the nurse woke him to change his medication.After the change, Carol peeled an orange for him to eat. They shared the segments, chatting idly."Imogen really picked a good husband. Even these oranges he bought are unusually sweet," Carol said, marveling at the oranges. Gregory glanced at the orange and said, "They must be expensive.""Yes, they're sold by the piece in big supermarkets. Also, they're more expensive than beef and lamb," Carol said before eating another sweet segment.Gregory pondered for a moment. Then he curiously asked, "Someone ruined our house's floor. Do you think Jasper would help us repair it?"Carol shot him a look and replied, "Listen, don't burden Imogen with this. Don't even bring it up.""Why would it burden Imogen? With Jasper's wealth, this is nothing.""Enough," Carol snapped. "That's his business. No matter how poor we are, we shouldn't ask for what isn't ours." "You're too stu